Heavy Rain Disrupts Connectivity in North Bengal, Several Routes to Darjeeling and Sikkim Cut Off

Siliguri, June 23: Continuous heavy rainfall over the past several days has caused widespread disruption across the hills and plains of North Bengal. Torrential rain has triggered multiple landslides, cutting off several key road links connecting Siliguri with Darjeeling, Sikkim, and various parts of Northeast India.

According to administrative sources, persistent downpours in the hilly regions have led to major road collapses at several locations. Mudslides and falling rocks have blocked important transport routes, including national highways, bringing traffic movement to a complete halt. As a result, connectivity with Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Sikkim, and nearby areas has been severely affected.

In particular, multiple landslides have been reported along the Siliguri–Darjeeling and Siliguri–Sikkim routes. Hundreds of tourists and local travelers are reportedly stranded at various locations due to the road closures. The transportation of essential commodities has also been disrupted, with the impact beginning to be felt in local markets.

Authorities, along with officials from the National Highways Authority and disaster management teams, have been deployed to clear debris and restore traffic movement. However, continuous rainfall is hampering rescue and restoration efforts. The Meteorological Department has forecast heavy to very heavy rainfall across several districts of North Bengal over the next few days, raising concerns that the situation could worsen further.

The administration has advised people to avoid unnecessary travel to hilly regions and has urged residents living in landslide-prone areas to remain alert and take necessary precautions.

The ongoing weather-related crisis has increased hardships for local residents and travelers alike. There are also growing concerns about its impact on tourism and commercial activities in the region. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely and are working to restore normal connectivity as quickly as possible.